IBM to provide €11.5m mainframe system to SETU Waterford

Move will give students hands-on access to enterprise-grade technology as part of company’s 70th anniversary in Ireland

South East Technological University president Veronica Campbell, IBM chief financial officer James Kavanaugh, and IBM Ireland country manager Nathan Cullen.

IBM has announced it will provide €11.5m worth of technology, including an IBM z17 mainframe, to South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations in Ireland.

The IBM z17 system has been installed at SETU under an educational loan agreement and will support teaching, learning, and research. Powering roughly 70% of global transactions by value, the IBM Z mainframe will give students across computer science, engineering, cybersecurity, data, and AI hands-on access to enterprise-grade technology.

Taoiseach Mícheál Martin said: “For 70 years, IBM has contributed to Ireland’s growth by investing in technology, skills, and innovation. This latest support to boost education and research will help equip the next generation with the capabilities required for the AI era, whilst strengthening Ireland’s position as a hub for advanced enterprise technology."

"This commitment by IBM reflects Ireland’s ambition to build long-term, sustainable leadership in digital innovation," he said.

In the last two years, IBM has announced over 850 high‑tech roles across Dublin, Cork, and Waterford across R&D, IBM Z development, IBM Consulting operations, and sales.

Enterprise, tourism, and employment minister Peter Burke said: “Ireland’s future competitiveness will be shaped in part by how well we equip people with the skills needed for emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing and trusted digital infrastructure."

"IBM’s collaboration with South-East Technological University demonstrates the value of strong industry-academic partnerships in building talent, strengthening economic resilience, and preparing students and graduates for the technologies that will drive Ireland’s next phase of digital growth."

SETU president Veronica Campbell said: “The provision of the z17 mainframe from IBM to SETU will be transformative for our students and researchers. This collaboration is in line with SETU’s strategic plan, which positions the university as a driver of innovation and change for the region, its communities, and partners."

"By providing direct, hands-on access to this enterprise-grade technology, we are creating an invaluable student opportunity that bridges the gap between academic study and real-world practical skills within high-demand professional domains."

IDA Ireland chief executive Michael Lohan said: “IBM’s 70-year track record in Ireland is a powerful example of how long-term partnership can deliver sustained economic and societal impact. 

"This latest investment in advanced infrastructure at SETU directly supports IDA Ireland’s strategy to drive regional growth, deepen the talent pipeline and strengthen Ireland’s position as a global hub for digitalisation, AI and high-value FDI."

"We are proud to work with IBM as it continues to innovate and invest here, and we welcome the opportunities this initiative will create for students, researchers, and employers across the country," he said.